Identified as a creeping plant of the Umbelliferea family, gotu kola is known for its medicinal properties.Used in India for over 2,000 years, the plant is believed to strengthen memory and concentration, as well as treat chronic skin disorders and help with wound healing.

The origin of gotu kola is identified as being from Southeast Asia, India, Sri Lanka, China, but also Madagascar, Unas of the South Seas, Africa, Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia and Brazil. Gotu kola was discovered in the 1940s by an outspoken biochemist, Jules Lépine.

medicinal properties

Gotu kola is indicated for several health problems, mainly due to the species’ natural properties. It has adaptogenic, depurative, healing, digestive, anti-cellulite, stimulates vaginal irritation, fat metabolism, skin stimulant and antidepressant.

The use of the plant also accelerates healing and reduces the risk of keloid formation. Also with regard to skin lesions, it can be applied as a lotion on the skin in minor burns, psoriasis and scars. As a secondary treatment, the species is useful in many chronic health problems.

Gotu kola can also be used to tone and strengthen veins, treat leg ulcers, venous insufficiency, varicose veins and strokes. To make use of all these properties, people must use the leaves in treatments.

care

Before including gotu kola in the treatment schedule, it is important that the doctor is consulted. He is the best person to endorse the healing properties of the plant, especially taking into account its physical characteristics and also the disease that is in evidence.

As far as side effects are concerned, the plant can cause infertility, topical irritation, photosensitization, contact dermatitis and eczema, both of which are skin diseases related to the overuse of plant-based creams. As for ingestion, very high doses can cause headache and narcosis.

Gotu kola tea

To prepare the Gotu kola tea, simply pour a tablespoon of chopped dried leaves into a cup, then add 200ml of boiling water. That done, smother and let it rest for about 10 minutes. After that time, just strain, sweeten, if you prefer, and ingest. It is recommended that the dosage not exceed three cups daily.